If a clot blocks one of the arteries leading to your brain, it could cause a stroke or transient ischaemic attack TIA or mini-stroke. If you have atrial fibrillation, you are five times more likely to have a stroke.
However, some people do not have any symptoms and AF is often only diagnosed during a general medical check up or after a stroke or TIA. As well as these four types, a small number of people may be diagnosed with "lone" AF. If you suspect your pulse is irregular, make an appointment with your GP. They may refer you for further tests to confirm whether you have AF. AF that comes and goes can be hard to detect.
To help diagnose it, you may be asked to wear a portable ECG monitor for 24 hours or more to check how your heart works over a longer period of time. Your doctor will talk to you about whether you need treatment, and which options will work best for you.
If your heart is beating too fast, you may be offered medication to make it beat at a normal rate. You might need to try several types of medication before you find the right one for you.
You should also have regular checks to monitor your blood pressure and heart rate. You may also be offered treatment to make your heart beat more regularly. This can include medication, or a procedure called cardioversion. This uses a brief electric shock or medication to restore a normal rhythm. There are other treatments for AF, including surgical procedures such as catheter ablation where radio frequency energy is used to remove the area of the heart causing the abnormal rhythm.
If you are diagnosed with AF, your doctor will assess your risk of a stroke. If you are at a high risk, they will talk to you about using anticoagulant medication. Your doctor will discuss the options with you and carry out checks to make sure the medication is working well for you.
They start suddenly and then the heart returns to a normal beat on its own without medical assistance, usually within 24 hours. Persistent: episodes that last longer than seven days. Usually treatment is needed to return the heart to a normal rhythm. Permanent: the irregular heart rhythm lasts for more than a year despite medications and other treatments. Some people with permanent Afib do not feel any symptoms or require medications. If you develop Afib before the age of 60 without any structural heart disease, you may have idiopathic or lone atrial fibrillation.
Researchers have identified a handful of genes that predispose families to idiopathic Afib. It is also possible for young people without Afib in their family to develop the disease. Some people with Afib may feel fine and not know they have the condition until it is found in a routine test called an electrocardiogram.
Other people have symptoms. The symptoms affect people in different ways. If you are experiencing any of these Afib symptoms, visit your doctor. Paul Dorian talks about symptoms and how they might affect you in this video. If you are experiencing chest discomfort or other signs of a heart attack , call or your local emergency number immediately.
If your pulse is fast and your heartbeat is irregular, your doctor may check you for Afib. They will take your medical history and question you about symptoms and risk factors. Your treatment will be based on your risks, medical profile, needs, preferences and how much symptoms are interfering with your quality of life. There are two general treatment strategies — rate control and rhythm control. Your doctor will determine which strategy is best for you based on your symptoms and other factors.
Here are some tips for managing your medications. Listen to Dr. Paul Dorian and Dr. Jeff Nagge explain blood thinners , INR testing if you are on warfarin and healthy eating while on warfarin in these videos. You can lower your risk of developing other heart diseases and stroke by knowing and controlling your blood pressure, diabetes and blood cholesterol. Get the latest research news and information, with tips and strategies to help you manage your recovery.
As long as you are feeling well, you can still exercise. Talk to your doctor before you become more physically active. To find useful services to help you on your journey with heart disease, see our services and resources listing.
People with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of having a stroke. In extreme cases, atrial fibrillation can also lead to heart failure. When the upper chambers of the heart atria do not pump efficiently, as in atrial fibrillation, there's a risk of blood clots forming.
Most people diagnosed with AF have no family history of it. Atrial fibrillation is associated with high blood pressure , heart disease, diabetes and lung cancer. To find out if you have atrial fibrillation, a doctor or nurse will check your pulse. If it feels irregular they may refer you for more tests. If you experience symptoms such as palpitations, weakness, faintness or breathlessness, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor will also advise you on how best to manage your AF.
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